When one stops to reflect upon how far technology has come, past all the rapid advancements in graphic processors, flip-flop, anti-aliasing, buffering, (enter elaborate hardware term which you're unlikely to use in daily conversation here...), it's still somewhat of a mystery as to why modernized versions of classic titles wound up being a disappointment. It seems somewhat excusable (or then again, perhaps not) when updated versions of classic TV franchises get revamped for the big screen...I've come to wonder why software developers generally fall into the same trap of failing to deliver a entertaining package worth investing in.

Thanks to the sharp minds behind Midway, who in 1998 released Gauntlet Legends, the updated installment to the Atari classic Gauntlet franchise gave evidence that with a mix of integrity and effort, reinventing treasured classics was certainly an feisible achievement. Though I must admit, upon hearing that Midway was taking steps to reinvent the Spy Hunter universe, it definitely triggered more than just a raised eyebrow. From my perspective, tinkering with such an acclaimed classic was like flirting with the very physics of matter itself. And despite the fact that Gauntlet Legends served as a model example that such a plight could be pulled off again, my skepticism remained on high until the very opportunity to behold the game's development first-hand.

Sometimes, it pays to have a sprinkle of optimism on your shoulders.

When Midway invited me for a personal look (which initially was a video trailer), it only took but a millisecond after the famous "Peter Gunn" theme which blasted from the sound system (which made me envious of my rig I might add) to sit with utter excitement as to the very game itself in the works. There I sat admiring Midway's masterpiece in development, full of visual splendor, very sleek; very cool indeed. Midway has set out to take every aspect of the original - the car, the enemies, the transistions from land to water and of course, the weapons van, and build from there. My hat is tipped to Micheal Gottlieb, because my initial impressions clearly could see that these elements were fully intact, and amplified a hundred fold thanks to the graphic power behind the PS2.

The story, much like the original hinges upon a familiar theme where players will once again, set out on a mission to save the world from an evil, multi-national corporation known as NOSTRA. Getting behind the wheel of the G-6155 Interceptor, the ultimate counterintelligence prototype which could even make K.I.T.T envious. Equipped with the morphing abilities, high-tech weaponry and lightning fast speed, you'll embrark on 14, high-adrenaline missions, you'll race against time throughout exotic locations (Panama, Key West, England, among others) depicted in an highly detailed, photo-realistic which also features recognizable landmarks and scenery which is bound to immerse players and make an exciting action experience.

While the original Spy Hunter was certainly enjoyable in its conventional theme that focused heavily on single-player car combat, the missions in the updated installment will objective based, which of course raises the degree of gameplay and excitement. While players will remain racing against time to reach the rendevous point, you'll now be faced with various tasks to complete along the way. For example, a mission in Key West requires you to steal NOSTRA's plans for a new Interceptor-class vechicle, then, destroying the parts convoy. Another example is found in a mission which takes place in Panama, where players will utilize SATCOM stations to relay the locations of drug shipments. With over 65 objectives which span the game's 14 levels, there's plenty of mission variety to indulge in. Fortunately, many of the objectives are secondary, and are not essential in order to complete the game. The action always remains behind the wheel, and you'll discover that at times you may not even have to slow down. As Midway's producer exclaims, "the main design goal of the game is high-speed, action-packed driving, so we catered everything around those elements".

Just as in the original edition, where players were in a race against time, encountering familiar enemies - Mad Bomber, Switchblade (I've never like these guys...always finding a way to get me off the road), and The Enforcer, each which would enjoy nothing more than to make you and your trusty Interceptor a heap of scrap metal on the side of the road. Fortunately, you're not alone, with the aid of a familiar red 18 wheeler, your Interceptor can acquire various offensive weapons of offensive gutso, including atillery, missles, and lasers in addition to counter-attack weapons such as oil slicks, smoke screens and cluster mines.

Spy Hunter is rich in visual presentation and gameplay, as expressed earlier, the Interceptor is a vehicle that as much a marvel to drive as it is to visually admire. Graphically, each level you engage is very vast, projecting a very realistic atmosphere, all which appear to be heavily inspired from popular racing franchises such as Gran Turismo and Need for Speed. There's certainly an extensive degree of action taking place on the road, although there are a few complications with effectively taking out roadside obstalces, an element that surely will be addressed before the game is released later this year. As you engage different terrain or take substantial damage, the Interceptor will transform into a car, boat, jet ski, or motocycle (called a SEV - Secondary Extraction Vehicle). A very slick aspect that amplifies the original theme significantly.

From my initial impressions, Midway is certainly on the right track to delivering another action-packed title. Unquestionably, this will be a welcomed addition for my own library (and that of avid fans of the Spy Hunter series). Additional gameplay impressions will be reported in the near future when the game is completed and I can fully become indulge into every element that Spy Hunter has to offer, though it's clearly evident at this point that the updated edition will be just as explosive and entertaining as the original adventure.

· · · Bahn